§ Linda PerhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received on the identification and dissemination of examples of good practice in learning disability services. [127852]
§ Dr. LadymanWe have received no such representations but recognise the importance of sharing examples of good practice to help ensure the improvement of services across the country.
Our proposals for improving services for people with learning disabilities, their families and carers are set out in the White Paper "Valuing People: A New Strategy for Learning Disability for the 21st Century" (Cm 5086), published in March 2001. The White Paper sets out a challenging programme of action which will make a real difference to people's lives.
Our annual report on learning disability, "Making Change Happen" (HC514), published in April 2003, reports progress made in implementing "Valuing People" and contains examples of good practice. The valuing people support team, set up as part of the White Paper implementation programme, has been operating since February 2002. A core component of the support team's work, through publications, conferences, and other events, is the sharing and promoting of good practice among learning disability partnership boards throughout England.